This blog was created for Niles Animal Hospital & Bird Medical Center by Peter S. Sakas DVM in an effort to provide information & discussion about animal related issues. It may move into some eccentric directions on occasion if the mood strikes me as I get more comfortable in this form of communication. I am open to suggestions & comments about the blog. Also view our hospital website www.nilesanimalhospital.com or Facebook page Niles Animal Hospital and Bird Medical Center.

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

FDA Dog Treat Warning: Necropsy Results on Bay Area Dog

Only NBC Bay Area has
the results of new tests conducted on a Morgan Hill woman’s dog that
died within 48 hours of eating chicken jerky treats, plus we analyze the
FDA’s most recent database of complaints to find out which brands top
the list.

Only
NBC Bay Area has the results of new tests conducted on a Morgan Hill
woman s dog that died within 48 hours of eating chicken jerky treats,
plus we analyze the FDA s most recent database of complaints to find out
which brands top the list. The NBC Bay Area Investigative Unit's Vicky
Nguyen reports.

The Morgan Hill woman says it was
heartbreaking when three of them became sick after eating Milo’s Kitchen
chicken jerky treats made by Del Monte.

Dachshund-mix Liz had diarrhea and
wouldn’t eat and chihuahua-mix Jack stopped eating and had to undergo
weeks of veterinary treatment for his liver. But it was Shepherd-mix
Cali who couldn’t be saved.

Cali died after her stomach twisted,
ruptured, and exploded. “It was violent and she did not deserve the way
that she died,” said an emotional Chambers.

She immediately notified the Food and
Drug Administration about Cali’s death, and agreed to take her dog to
the University of California at Davis, so FDA veterinarians could
perform a necropsy. The report, conducted by Dr. Renate Reimschuessel of
the FDA, says “numerous toxicologic tests were run” but the “cause for
gastric upset and vomiting in this dog …remains undetermined.”

Veterinarian Jaspar Harika treated
Cali and Jack initially. He says in his Morgan Hill practice, he’s seen
an increase in the number of dogs sickened after owners fed them chicken
jerky treats. He says he is advising owners to avoid these treats. “If
they are causing vomiting and diarrhea, they are causing discomfort to
the pet,” Harika said.

Since 2007, the FDA has received
more than 1,800 complaints about chicken jerky treats. The FDA has
issued three warnings in the past five years, saying “chicken jerky
treats may be associated with illness in dogs.”

An NBC Bay Area analysis found the brands with the most complaints were Nestle’s Waggin’ Train, and Kingdom Pets.

Despite the FDA warnings, the treats are still on shelves at Target, Walmart, Costco, Petco and Petsmart.

Craig Wilson, Costco vice president
of food safety and quality assurance, says Costco carries chicken jerky
treats made by Kingdom Pets and Waggin’ Train, both made in China, as
well as Nature’s Deli, made by Kasel Industries in the U.S.

Wilson says extensive monthly tests
by Costco have shown no contaminants in any of the treats and no
difference in incidence between Chinese or U.S. made products. “We test
these things the same way we test human foods. We look at a complete
microbial screen for pathogens and spoilage organisms including
salmonella, listeria and e. coli. We also test for chemicals and heavy
metals and the items are fully irradiated,” said Wilson. “There’s no
data to support the link between these [sick] dogs and the treats.”

PetSmart provided this statement to
NBC Bay Area regarding its decision not to stop sales or post the FDA
warning about chicken jerky treats: “PetSmart stays current on
information issued by the FDA. At this time, no required or voluntary
recalls have been issued by the FDA or any of the manufacturers of the
chicken jerky products we carry so these products have not been removed
from shelves.”

Walmart stated: “We are aware of the
concerns surrounding chicken jerky from China and we have been in
contact with the FDA regarding this ongoing investigation. If evidence
is found linking a contaminant to our products, we will take appropriate
action.”

Petco did not respond to requests for comment. Target said it could not comment because of pending litigation.

Bay Area chain Pet Food Express does
not and has never carried the Del Monte or Nestle Purina products, but
it has posted the FDA warning to educate customers.

“We know our customers don’t shop
here exclusively and they are going to have questions about chicken
treats. We want to give them as much information as possible,” said
co-founder Michael Levy.

He says Pet Food Express carefully
tracks customer complaints and has not recorded a difference between
chicken treats from China and those from the U.S. “We would not carry
anything we wouldn’t feed our own pets,” said Levy.

Attorney Shawn Khorrami is suing Del
Monte on behalf of Susan Webster, a Southern California woman who says
her dog was sickened by Milo’s Kitchen treats.

In the lawsuit, she claims the
companies failed to properly investigate and test the potential toxicity
of Milo’s Treats, wrongfully marketed the product, failed to warn
consumers about the potential dangers and did not recall or discontinue
sale of the treats.

She wants the chicken jerky removed
from the shelves and seeks unspecified damages. Khorrami says the suit
also seeks to force the FDA to release what it found after recent
inspections of the facilities where these treats are made. “The FDA has
gone to China and inspected the facilities but we can’t get the results
of that,” said Khorrami. The FDA says releasing those inspections would
reveal trade secrets.

Treat makers repeat their products
are safe if fed as directed. In Cali’s case, the maximum recommended
portion on the Milo’s Kitchen treat bag is between 4-5 pieces for a dog
of her size.

Chambers says she only fed Cali one
or two treats, and her smaller dogs, Jack and Liz, were given a single
treat each. “We did not give them the entire bag of treats. Even if I
gave them the whole bag, if you eat a whole box of Ding Dongs you’re not
gonna die,” said Chambers.

Chambers says she hopes retailers
will at least post the FDA warning near the products. “By…just giving me
a simple advisory that said this could cause illness or death I would
not have purchased that and my dog would still be here today,” said
Chambers.

From the AVMA Animal Health Smart Brief.....one of the great mysteries of the animal world explained!

How and why do cats purr?

By Marla Vacek BroadfootCorrespondent

Q: Why do cats purr? Does it always mean they are happy?

What a pleasure to have a cat sitting in one’s lap, purring
loudly! Cats are thought to purr in order to maintain contact with other
cats or humans. This may be when the cat appears to be expressing
contentment, as sitting on the lap of a familiar person.

One investigator put throat microphones on free-ranging cats and
recorded their purring. She found that purring occurred in a wide range
of circumstances, including the presence of the cat’s caretaker, when
greeting another familiar cat, during tactile stimulation such as
rolling or rubbing, and during drowsy sleep, particularly in warm,
familiar environments. Female cats purr when nursing their young;
kittens purr while nursing. Some situations appear to “turn off”
purring, including aggressive or sexual interactions; while hunting, in
the presence of prey, and upon first exposure to catnip.

In general, purring is associated with positive cat-human
interactions or positive cat-cat interactions. In addition, purring may
occur just prior to sleep or, surprisingly, when in pain. When
veterinarians examine a cat presented for emergency treatment after
having been hit by a car, they may note that it is purring.Q: How do they make that characteristic sound?

Purring is triggered by a signal from the central nervous system.
As the cat inhales and exhales, the vocal fold muscles in the larynx
vibrate to produce sound bursts. These sound bursts occur every 30 to 40
milliseconds (or approximately 25 times a second) and result in the
familiar purring sound. Purr frequency is independent of cat age, size,
weight, or sex, and is easily audible to a nearby person or cat.

While purring, cats can simultaneously produce other
vocalizations, including cries. An example is well-known to cat owners:
the plaintive “demand” cry of cats, which can be heard when opening a
can of cat food at feeding time.

Q: Do any other animals (domestic and other) exhibit similar behaviors?

The purr is highly characteristic of felids. The famed naturalist
Charles Darwin noted that, in addition to the house cat, the puma,
cheetah, and ocelot purr. The large roaring cats, such as the lion,
jaguar, and leopard (in the genus Panthera), do not purr.

Nothing to Sneeze At: Cats Worse Than Dogs for Allergies

If you have pet allergies, chances are it is Fluffy rather than Fido
that's making you sneeze. While an estimated 10 percent of people are
allergic to household pets, cat allergies are twice as common as dog
allergies, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and
Immunology.

Among children, about one in seven between ages 6 and 19 prove to be allergic to cats.
Contrary to popular belief, it's not cat fur that causes those itchy, watery eyes. Most people with cat allergies react to a protein found on cat skin called Fel d 1.

The reason that cat allergies are more common has to do with the size
and shape of the protein molecule, rather than how much dander the
animal sheds, according to Mark Larché, an immunology professor at
McMaster University in Ontario.

The protein enters the air on bits of cat hair and skin, and it is so
small and light — it's about one-tenth the size of a dust allergen —
that it can stay airborne for hours. "Dog allergens
don't stay airborne the same way cat allergens do. The particle size is
just right to breathe deep into your lungs," Larché said.

The Fel d 1 protein is also incredibly sticky, readily glomming onto
human skin and clothes and remaining there, making it ubiquitous in the
environment. It has been found in places where there are no cats —
classrooms, doctors' offices, even the Arctic, Larché said.

While there are no truly hypoallergenic cat breeds — all cats produce
the protein, which experts surmise may have something do with pheromone
signaling — some cats make more of it than others.

If you have cat allergies, there are steps you can take to reduce them.
Avoiding contact with cats is one option, though not always a popular
choice. Even after a cat is taken out of a house, allergen levels may
remain high for up to six months, Kim said.

Limiting a cat's access to the bedrooms of allergic people, using high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, bathing the cat and removing allergen-trapping carpeting may also help.

For those who can't avoid cat dander, allergy shots may be an option.
Small injections of the allergen can help build immune system tolerance
over time. "It takes about six months of weekly injections of increasing
potency to reach a maintenance level, followed by three to five years
of monthly injections, for the therapy to reach full effectiveness,"
said Dr. Jackie Eghrari-Sabet, an allergist and founder of Family
Allergy and Asthma Care in Gaithersburg, Md.

A less burdensome fix for cat allergies may be on the horizon. Phase 3
clinical trials are set to begin this fall for a cat allergy vaccine
that Larché helped develop. Early tests have shown the vaccine to be
safe and effective without some of the side effects of allergy shots,
such as skin reactions and difficulty breathing. Larché receives
research funding from pharmaceutical companies Adiga Life Sciences and
Circassia.

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Make sure your dog is up to date with their distemper vaccinations. This disease is serious, is preventable with vaccination, and is prevalent in the wildlife population. Do not think it will not happen in your neighborhood. In Illinois, distemper was having a severe impact on the raccoon population.

More than 200 dogs euthanized after distemper outbreak

A Perry County animal shelter had to euthanize hundreds of
dogs after an outbreak of a disease that only affects canines. This
could have an impact on all dog owners in the region.

Distemper is a rare disease, but it recently forced
authorities at the Kentucky River Regional Animal Shelter to put down
more than 200 dogs.

"They unfortunately had to do that because all of those
dogs had been exposed, said Dr. Danika Harvey, a veterinarian at
Appalachian Animal Shelter in Hazard. "You couldn't adopt those out and
let people take them out in the community and expose them to other dogs"

The best way to prevent distemper is to make sure your dog is up on its vaccinations.

Even though the disease affects dogs, it can be transmitted by many other animals.

"I think that may be where the issue has started from,"
Harvey said. "Because we have an issue with coyotes and foxes and
raccoons. They can get the virus."

The symptoms of distemper are fairly easy to spot.

"With this disease, you will sometimes see upper
respiratory signs, runny eyes and watery diarrhea, which you don't
typically see right off the bat," said Dr. William Hagan, a vet who
serves on the shelter's board and volunteers there.

You can also prevent distemper by disinfecting your dog's cage.

The shelter is currently closed while officials there try to eradicate the disease.

A
dog owner in the Chicago area has filed a class action lawsuit alleging
that his 9-year-old Pomeranian died as a result of eating Nestlé
Purina’s Waggin’ Train Yam Good dog treats. The fatality and resulting
lawsuit are the most recent in a series of events illustrating the
public’s growing anxieties over an apparent connection between chicken
jerky treats from China and a surge of unexplained illness in dogs.

According
to the lawsuit, filed on April 18 in U.S. District Court for the
Northern District of Illinois by Dennis Adkins of Orland Park, Ill., the
dog became ill and died of kidney failure less than two weeks after
consuming the treats in March. Adkins says he gave one of the treats to
his dog daily for two days and that no other changes were made to the
dog’s diet. His other Pomeranian was not fed the treats and did not
become ill. The suit names as defendants Waggin’ Train LLC, the
manufacturer of the product; Nestlé Purina Petcare Co., the corporation
that owns Waggin’ Train LLC; and Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., the distributor.
The
lawsuit states that although Nestlé Purina and Waggin’ Train had
received complaints of more than 500 incidents in which dog treats
containing chicken jerky imported from China caused dogs to become sick
or die, they continued to market their product as being “wholesome” and
placed no warnings concerning the product on the packaging.
Additionally, it states that Nestlé Purina and Waggin’ Train knew there
was a substantial risk of death or harm associated with its dog treats
and intentionally concealed known facts concerning the safety of the dog
treats in order to increase or maintain sales.

Keith Schopp,
spokesperson for Nestlé Purina and Waggin’ Train, states, “We believe
the claims made in the lawsuit to be without merit and we intend to
vigorously defend ourselves. We can say that Waggin’ Train products
continue to be safe to feed as directed.”

The lawsuit brings eight
counts against the defendants by Adkins and on behalf of all consumers
who purchased the chicken jerky dog treats. The allegations include
breach of implied and express warranty, consumer and common law fraud,
unjust enrichment, negligence, and strict products liability with
defective design or manufacture and failure to warn. Adkins is seeking
an excess of $5 million for compensatory and punitive damages and costs
of the suit.

The case is just one of many reported incidences of
illness in pets in association with the consumption of chicken jerky
products. Numerous complaints concerning Waggin’ Train chicken jerky
treats sickening or killing dogs can be found on the Internet and have
sparked the creation of petitions and social media groups by and for pet
owners who have lost their pet to illness that they believe is
associated with the treats.
Dating back to 2007, the U.S. Food and
Drug Administration (FDA) has been investigating a potential connection
between the illnesses reported and the treats and has tested a number
of samples for contaminants and toxins. However, according to the FDA,
scientists have been unable to determine a definitive cause for the
reported illnesses. Unless a contaminant is detected and there is
evidence that a product is adulterated, the FDA is limited in the
regulatory actions it can take.

The FDA did issue cautionary
warnings to the public concerning chicken jerky treats in September 2007
and issued a Preliminary Animal Health Notification in December 2008.
The number of complaints declined during the latter part of 2009 and
most of 2010, the agency reports, but an increase in consumer complaints
prompted the FDA to issue a cautionary update again in November 2011.
Since that issuance, there has been a steady rise in complaints
regarding the chicken jerky products,with more than 900 cases reportedly
affected by consumption of these treats, the FDA says.

No recalls
have been issued for Waggin’ Train or any brand of chicken jerky treats
to date. On the company’s web site, Waggin’ Train addresses consumer
concerns and continues to maintain the integrity and quality of their
chicken jerky treats, asserting a comprehensive food safety program and
strict quality assurance teams dedicated to overseeing the various steps
of the manufacturing process.

Despite the absence of a formal
recall, the FDA recommends that pet owners monitor their dogs closely
for signs of illness if they choose to feed chicken jerky treats.
Symptoms of disease include vomiting, lethargy and anorexia, and based
on preliminary data, the problem appears more likely to occur in
small-breed dogs that are fed the treats regularly or in amounts
exceeding the labeled feeding recommendations. Veterinarians who suspect
a pet illness associated with the consumption of chicken jerky treats
are urged to report the case to the FDA immediately.

Cause of illness is still unknown, but complaints range from decreased appetite to possible kidney failure.

Jul 18, 2012DVM NEWSMAGAZINE

Laboratory
tests on chicken jerky products imported from China by the Federal
Department of Agriculture (FDA) are ongoing as complaints of dog
illnesses associated with the product continue to rise. The FDA issued a
cautionary warning in regard to chicken jerky products Nov. 18, 2011.
Since then, the FDA has continued to receive numerous complaints.

The FDA first issued a cautionary warning about the products in
September 2007 and a Preliminary Animal Health Notification in December
2008. Complaints dropped off during the latter part of 2009 and most of
2010, the FDA says, but in 2011 they began to rise again, prompting a
release detailing the FDA’s warnings. By the end of May 2012 the number
of reported cases linked to chicken jerkey treats had surpassed 900.

On
July 18, the FDA updated its warning, giving more details of its testing
processes, signs associated with consumption of the treats and results
of its analyses.

According to the FDA, clinical signs that may be associated with the
dried chicken jerky products--also sold as tenders, strips and
treats--include decreased appetite, decreased activity, vomiting,
diarrhea (sometimes with blood), increased water consumption and
increased urination. Signs may manifest within hours to days of
ingestion. Laboratory tests may indicate kidney problems, including
increased urea nitrogen and creatinine levels, and urine tests may
reveal high glucose levels. Although many dogs appear to recover, the
FDA says, some reports have involved dogs that died.

The FDA has been investigating the cause of illness possibly associated
with the product since 2007. A cause of illness has yet to be found
despite extensive evaluation at the FDA and private labs for Salmonella,
metals, pesticides, antibiotics, mycotoxins, rodenticides, nephrotoxins
and other chemical and poisonous compounds. Researchers have performed
DNA verification tests on samples to confirm the presence of poultry in
the treats and analysis to determine nutritional composition, vitamin D
levels and the presence of any enterotoxins. More samples are being
collected for testing.

In response to the question of why the FDA has not recalled the
products, the agency states, “Unless a contaminant is detected and we
have evidence that a product is adulterated, we are limited in what
regulatory actions we can take. The regulations don’t allow for products
to be removed based on complaints alone. This is an ongoing
investigation and FDA will notify the public if a recall is initiated.
Currently, FDA continues to urge pet owners to use caution with regard
to chicken jerky products.”

The FDA advises that chicken jerky products not be substituted
for a balanced diet and should only be fed occasionally in small
quantities. It advises consumers who continue to feed the treats to pets
to watch them closely for symptoms. If symptoms are severe or persist
for more than 24 hours, pet owners should consult a veterinarian.

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Pets: New FDA findings show that numbers of pets affected by chicken jerky treats has increased, but still there's no recall

Pet food recalls affecting all species have become all-too-common in recent years, and they've occurred for various reasons.

This has been a cause for much controversy and concern for those who
share life with pets, and some have even taken matters into their own
hands. The movement to either create home-cooked diets or seek
commercially available small batch holistic or raw diets has been
vigorous, needless to say.

Fanconi syndrome causes kidney dysfunction, and results in different complications, which should be taken seriously.

After five years of testing, the FDA is still having a hard time
honing in on what is killing dogs when it comes to these treats.

The agency's standard protocol is to test for bacterial
contamination, mold and chemicals like those used in antifreeze, resins
and plastics. Heavy metals are on their list of things to test for, as
well as melamine and melamine analogs that were detected in pet foods
that caused illness and death in thousands of animals in 2007 (the
catalyst for the largest pet food recall in history).

The laboratory results of nearly 300 jerky treat samples collected
and tested in the U.S. between April 2007 and June 2012 was included in a
new report released this week.

Tamara Ward, an FDA spokeswoman recently said that
FDA figures show that the number of complaints of animal illnesses and
deaths blamed on the treats has risen to more than 1,800.

Despite some findings of adverse effects in the treats, none of the
reports that were released indicated that regulatory action needed to be
taken — like a recall.

“This does not represent ALL testing that has and is being conducted
by FDA,” Ward said in an email. “Additional testing is currently being
conducted through other avenues.”

The Chinese facilities that make the treats were inspected in February of this year.

I created a slide show of photos I viewed on a site CraigsLostChicago. They were a series of "fun" places around Chicagoland where we used to go for fun. I know they will tug on the heartstrings of the old fogies and the younger people will just go, "Huh?"

Friday, July 20, 2012

I was made aware of another recall...a voluntary recall of some varieties of Nutriberries by Lafeber Company.

Voluntary Product Recall

July 11, 2012
RE: Voluntary Product Recall

Dear Customers,
You expect, and depend upon, the highest quality products. For over
41 years, Lafeber Company has prided itself in manufacturing extremely
high quality products that you can trust time and time again. Because
we expect nothing less than perfection in our products and we value your
trust, we feel it is necessary to recall this product.

We have learned that certain grains stored in hot humid conditions
can develop hot spots, randomly increasing their moisture. We
discovered that one of the grains used in our products was not properly
stored prior to its arrival to our facility, resulting in some small
areas containing undesirably higher moisture content.

Because the
increased moisture level can lead to problems with the food over time,
such as bacterial or fungal growth, we recommend that you discontinue
feeding the listed lot numbers. (See affected lot numbers below)

No problems have been reported and we are recalling the food to ensure that there are no problems.
Because of the randomness of hot spots, our quality control
procedures did not detect the problem initially. Unfortunately, this was
an unexpected quality control problem and new quality measures have
already been put in place to prevent this in the future.

The product in question it’s being replaced and we will be contacting
All customers affected to make arrangements for product replacement and
for the return of the product in question.

We truly apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you and thank
you for your support and understanding, we appreciate it very much.

Just days after a poacher's snare had killed one of their own, two young mountain gorillas worked together Tuesday to find and destroy traps in their Rwandan forest home, according to conservationists on the scene.

"This
is absolutely the first time that we've vseen juveniles doing that ... I
don't know of any other reports in the world of juveniles destroying
snares," said Veronica Vecellio, gorilla program coordinator at the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund's Karisoke Research Center, located in the reserve where the event took place.
"We
are the largest database and observer of wild gorillas ... so I would
be very surprised if somebody else has seen that," Vecellio added.

Bush-meat
hunters set thousands of rope-and-branch snares in Rwanda's Volcanoes
National Park, where the mountain gorillas live. The traps are intended
for antelope and other species but sometimes capture the apes.

Just
last week an ensnared infant named Ngwino, found too late by workers
from Karisoke, died of snare-related wounds. Her shoulder had been
dislocated during escape attempts, and gangrene had set in after the
ropes cut deep into her leg.

The hunters, Vecellio said, seem to
have no interest in the gorillas. Even small apes, which would be
relatively easy to carry away for sale, are left to die.

Rube Goldberg, Minus the Complexity
Poachers build the snares by tying a noose to a branch or a bamboo stalk, Vecellio explained.
Using
the rope, they pull the branch downward, bending it. They then use a
bent stick or rock to hold the noose to the ground, keeping the branch
tense. A sprinkling of vegetation camouflages the noose.
When an
animal budges the stick or rock, the branch springs upward, closing the
noose around the prey. If the creature is light enough, it will actually
be hoisted into the air.

Rwema and Dukore Save the Day
Every day trackers from the Karisoke center comb the forest for snares, dismantling them to protect the endangered mountain gorillas, which the International Fund for Nature (IUCN) says face "a very high risk of extinction in the wild."

On
Tuesday tracker John Ndayambaje spotted a trap very close to the
Kuryama gorilla clan. He moved in to deactivate the snare, but a
silverback named Vubu grunted, cautioning Ndayambaje to stay away,
Vecellio said.

Suddenly two juveniles—Rwema, a male; and Dukore, a female; both about four years old—ran toward the trap.

As Ndayambaje and a few tourists watched, Rwema jumped on the bent tree branch and broke it, while Dukore freed the noose.

The
pair then spied another snare nearby—one the tracker himself had
missed—and raced for it. Joined by a third gorilla, a teenager named
Tetero, Rwema and Dukore destroyed that trap as well.

Gorilla Tactics
The
speed with which everything happened makes Vecellio, the gorilla
program coordinator, think this wasn't the first time the young gorillas
had outsmarted trappers.

"They were very confident," she said. "They saw what they had to do, they did it, and then they left."
Silverbacks
in the Kuryama group have occasionally been caught in the snares, so
Vecellio thinks the juveniles would have known the traps are dangerous.

"That's why they destroyed them," Vecellio said.

"Quite Ingenious"
Despite
the unprecedented nature of the event, Vecellio said she wasn't
surprised by the reports. "But," she said, "I'm always amazed and very
proud when we can confirm that they are smart."

Thursday, July 19, 2012

From the AVMA Animal Health SmartBrief.......How to live with pets when you are allergic to them, by minimizing exposure to the allergens.

Keeping pets despite allergies to them

HOUSTON (FOX 26) -
Are you allergic to your pet? Don't worry, you can still keep your animal companion!

About 15 to 20 percent of the population is
allergic to animals. Which can result in some unhappy, unhealthy owners!
Allergens can cause symptoms such as red, itchy, watery eyes and nose;
sneezing; coughing; sore throat; itchy skin, and difficulty breathing.

The most common pet allergens are proteins found
in their dander, saliva, urine and sebaceous cells. Any animal can
trigger an allergic response, but cats are the most common culprits.
There is no species or breed to which humans cannot develop allergies.

Fur length and type will not affect or prevent
allergies. Certain pets can be less irritating than others to those who
suffer from allergies, but that is strictly on an individual basis and
cannot be predicted.

There is hope! Keep in mind most people are
allergic to several things besides pets, such as dust mites, molds and
pollens, all of which can be found in the home. Allergic symptoms result
from the total cumulative allergen load. That means if you eliminate
some of the other allergens, you may not have to get rid of your pet.

1. Create an allergen-free room.
A bedroom is often the best and most practical choice. By preventing
your pet from entering this room, you can ensure at least eight hours of
freedom from allergens every night. It's a good idea to use
hypoallergenic bedding and pillow materials.

2. Vacuum and dust frequently
using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate
arresting) filter or a disposable electrostatic bag. Wiping down the
walls will also cut down on allergens.

3. Install an air purifier
fitted with a HEPA filter. Modern, energy-efficient homes lock in air
that is loaded with allergens, so it's smart to let in some fresh air
daily.

4. Invest in washable pet bedding and cages that can be cleaned often and easily.

5. Bathe your pet at least once a week.
Your veterinarian can recommend a shampoo that won't dry out his skin.
Bathing works to wash off the allergens that accumulate in an animal's
fur.

6. Brush or comb your pet frequently. It's best to do this outdoors, if possible.

7. If possible, have someone other than yourself
do the housecleaning, litter box work and pet washing, wiping and
brushing. If you must clean the house or change the litter, be sure to
wear a dust mask.

8. Wash your hands
after handling your companion animal and before touching your face. The
areas around your nose and eyes are particularly sensitive to
allergens.

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

I hate to keep posting food recalls, but I feel it is a duty of mine to inform you of any recalls I am aware of to protect you and your pets.

Land O’Lakes Issues Sweeping Animal Food Recall

Food for animals that was manufactured by subsidiaries of Land O’Lakes
have been recalled or added to the recall that began in early July; this
affects food for small animals, birds, parrots, fish and many more.

By the Bird Channel News Division

Posted: July 17, 2012, 10:00 a.m. PST

Three Land O’Lakes subsidiaries recalled feed products, including
an expansion of the recent PMI Nutrition International recall, due to
the potential for elevated vitamin D levels, the companies reported on
Friday.
Elevated vitamin D levels may cause death or otherwise be harmful to
animals and fish if fed for extended periods, potentially resulting in
lack of interest in eating, weight loss and possible joint stiffness,
Land O’Lakes reported.

Land O’Lakes has isolated the issue that led to the elevated vitamin D
levels, but due to the regulatory process, is unable to release details
about the problem, the company reported.

All of the products involved in the recalls were manufactured at a
feed plant in Richmond, Ind., between April 2, 2012, and May 8, 2012.

The recalled PMI products were distributed throughout the United
States and to Canada, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Bahamas, the Cayman
Islands, Curacao, Mexico, Cambodia, Japan, China, Taiwan, South Korea,
Singapore, Chile and the United Kingdom. The company contacted dealers
and asked them to hold the products and retrieve the product from
customers, PMI reported.

Lot numbers for the WellSolve W/G products are laser printed at the
bottom of the label next to the ingredients listing on each bucket. Lot
numbers for the other recalled Purina Feed products are laser printed on
the back of each paper bag near the top. Lot numbers are formatted as
follows (using APR 17 12 2 as an example): APR = Month, 17 = Day of
month, 12 = Year, 2 = Plant code.

Land O’Lakes urged customers to return remaining products to their local dealers to receive a refund.
The recalled Feed Solutions products were distributed at Tractor
Supply and Del’s Feed & Farm Supply stores nationwide between Apr.
2, 2012, and May 8, 2012, the company reported.

The recalled products distributed to Tractor Supply stores include:

Formula

Item No.

Product description

Package weight

Lot numbers

5D06

0001468

AquaMax Grower 600

50 lb.

All lots APR 02 12 1 thru May 08 12 12 3, inclusive

51J2

0040967

Catfish 32

50 lb.

All lots APR 02 12 1 thru May 08 12 12 3, inclusive

5136

0007136

Catfish Chow Sr

50 lb.

All lots APR 02 12 1 thru May 08 12 12 3, inclusive

5M78

0001489

Maz Koi Pond Nuggets

20 lb.

All lots APR 02 12 1 thru May 08 12 12 3, inclusive

5664

0001444

Mazuri Guinea Pig Diet

25 lb.

All lots APR 02 12 1 thru May 08 12 12 3, inclusive

5647

0001437

Mazuri Ratite Diet

50 lb.

All lots APR 02 12 1 thru May 08 12 12 3, inclusive

5642

0001435

Mazuri Waterfowl Maint.

50 lb.

All lots APR 02 12 1 thru May 08 12 12 3, inclusive

5ZC9

0049071

Nutrisource Koi Pond

6 x 4.5 lb.

Best if Used By 04/25/14

35TD

0066925

Wellsolve W/C

50 lb.

All lots APR 02 12 1 thru May 08 12 12 3, inclusive

5M80

0001491

Maz Koi Platinum Nuggets

20 lb.

All lots APR 02 12 1 thru May 08 12 12 3, inclusive

The recalled products distributed to Del’s stores include:

Formula

Item No.

Product description

Package weight

Lot numbers

5D04

0001466

AquaMax Grower 400

50 lb.

All lots APR 02 12 1 thru May 08 12 12 3, inclusive

5D05

0045303

AquaMax Grower 500

50 lb.

All lots APR 02 12 1 thru May 08 12 12 3, inclusive

5D06

0001468

AquaMax Grower 600

50 lb.

All lots APR 02 12 1 thru May 08 12 12 3, inclusive

5D07

0001469

AquaMax Pond 2000

50 lb.

All lots APR 02 12 1 thru May 08 12 12 3, inclusive

52C1

0001363

Game Fish Chow

50 lb.

All lots APR 02 12 1 thru May 08 12 12 3, inclusive

5M78

0001491

Maz Koi Platinum Nuggets

20 lb.

All lots APR 02 12 1 thru May 08 12 12 3, inclusive

5664

0001444

Mazuri Guinea Pig Diet

25 lb.

All lots APR 02 12 1 thru May 08 12 12 3, inclusive

5647

0001437

Mazuri Ratite Diet

50 lb.

All lots APR 02 12 1 thru May 08 12 12 3, inclusive

5M32

0001480

Mazuri Ratite Starter

40 lb.

All lots APR 02 12 1 thru May 08 12 12 3, inclusive

35TD

0066925

Wellsolve W/C

50 lb.

All lots APR 02 12 1 thru May 08 12 12 3, inclusive

Feed Solutions urged customers to stop feeding the products and return them to their retailer to receive a refund.

Husband and wife writers Bill Wasik and Monica Murphy deconstruct one of the most fearsome viruses ever known in Rabid: A Cultural History of the World's Most Diabolical Virus. Wasik and Murphy tell us what scares us about rabies and how it has worked its way into our culture.

Take us back to the origin
of rabies. How did humans interact with the virus way back when? How
did we behave when first encountering the virus?

We've had rabies for as long as we've had civilization. References
to it survive in Sumerian texts dating back thousands of
years—astrological explanations of it, incantations against it, the
number of shekels you had to pay if your dog got it and killed someone.
Even though genetic research indicates that rabies probably began in
bats, it's always been associated with dogs. Indeed, it's always
represented the dark side of the dog, the evil that lurks within man's
supposed best friend.

Explain what happens to a body infected by rabies.

When a rabid animal bites a human, the virus infects the nerves at
the site of the wound, then travels slowly up the nervous system toward
the brain. If the victim gets vaccinated before the virus reaches its
destination, the infection will be cleared with no symptoms. But once
the virus reaches the brain, it's too late. Flu-like symptoms soon give
way to high fevers, convulsions. Victims become disoriented, distressed,
and sometimes violently aggressive. Often they have difficulty
swallowing, which gives rise to a phenomenon called "hydrophobia," where
they become physically repulsed at the sight of fluids. Eventually the
virus shuts down the essential functions of the brain, and the patient
dies of suffocation or heart failure. It's a truly terrible way to go.

How has our fear of rabies manifested itself in our culture?

It's a cultural link that you can find as far back as the Iliad.
"Lyssa," the Greek term for rabies, is used by Homer and other ancient
authors to denote a wild, animal rage. Indeed, the word "rage" itself
derives from the French word for rabies, and that similarly starts to
show up in medieval times as a literary metaphor for violent hate.

Since the 19th century, rabies has appeared more explicitly in
literature, usually as a horrifying subplot—think about the rabid dog in
To Kill a Mockingbird, or the death of Tea Cake in Their Eyes Were Watching God.
By the 1970s and 1980s, there was a small market for rabies horror
novels, both in England (where rabies was eradicated in 1902, but fear
of imported disease persists) and in the United States (remember Cujo)?

How does the history of rabies compare to other "killer" viruses? How is it different?

Rabies always been relatively rare compared to other killer
viruses. Even before there was a rabies vaccine, people died far more
rarely from rabies than they did from smallpox, measles, and even
influenza. (Not to mention from bacteria like cholera and tuberculosis,
or from parasites like malaria.)

But in terms of
popular fear, rabies has always loomed extremely large. This has been
true in part because rabies was, and with rare exception remains, 100
percent fatal—the highest case-fatality rate of any known
disease—and because it's such a terrible way to die. But it's also
because rabies spreads observably from animals, and, perhaps more
important, the symptoms themselves are animal-like in their mad fury.
There's something intrinsically creepy about rabies. Part of why
Louis Pasteur decided to develop the first modern human vaccine against
rabies, instead of some other illness, is that it created so much
hysteria in the general public.

Why are we at a stalemate with rabies?

Precisely because
rabies isn't a huge killer of people, it doesn't rate as highly as other
diseases in the budgets of philanthropic foundations or public-health
agencies, even in countries (mostly in Asia and Africa) where death from
rabies is still a significant problem. What seems to many people like
an easy way to reduce rabies—massacring the animals that spread it—turns
out to be ineffective and even counterproductive, since the population
of feral (unvaccinated) animals will just rebound to fill the vacuum.

Instead, what reduces rabies is mass vaccination campaigns for
animals, dogs in particular. But such campaigns require sustained
political will, which is hard to muster in countries where other health
problems seem more urgent.

Seems like there has been quite a string of food recalls......for all sorts of pet foods.

From the AVMA Pet Health SmartBrief

Nature's Variety recalls dog food over odor

Nature's Variety has initiated a voluntary recall of its
Prairie Beef Meal & Barley Medley Kibble for Dogs because of an
off-odor that may develop over time.

The Lincoln-based pet food manufacturer said the product
is not contaminated, but some food is not remaining fresh for the shelf
life of the product.

The products affected are the five-, 15- and 30-pound
bags of Prairie Beef Meal & Barley Medley Kibble, as well as the
three-ounce sample size.

Consumers who have purchased one of the products can
obtain a full refund or exchange it for a different variety by returning
the product in its original packaging or bringing a proof of purchase
back to their retailer.

Thursday, July 12, 2012

An article about the dangers of the artificial sweetener xylitol in dogs and cats. From the AVMA Animal Health SmartBrief.

Veterinary Q&A: Why is xylitol so dangerous for dogs and cats?

Dr. Dana Brooks, an internist at Seattle Veterinary Specialists in Kirkland, answers this week's question.
Dr. Dana Brooks, an internist at Seattle Veterinary Specialists in
Kirkland, reports an increased number of dogs and cats being treated at
its emergency clinic -- in one case the dog died -- from eating xylitol,
an artificial sweetener used as a sugar substitute in foods, including
sugar-free gum, sugar-free mints, chewable vitamins, tooth paste and
oral-care products. Xylitol is also available in a granulated form at
your local grocery store for baking and beverage sweeteners.

Xylitol strongly promotes the release of insulin from the pancreas
into circulation leading to a rapid decrease of blood glucose levels.
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can occur within 30 to 60 minutes of
xylitol ingestion with levels as low as 0.1g xylitol /kg body weight.

Hypoglycemia may compound further into liver toxicity, liver damage,
and ultimately liver failure. Ingesting amounts of xylitol greater than
0.5 g xylitol /kg body weight increases the risk for developing liver
toxicity.
Sugar-free chewing gum is the most common cause of dogs that present
to the emergency room. However, the recent introduction of xylitol as a
substitute for sugar in grocery stores has increased the potential for
toxicity.

Xylitol is perfectly safe for people, but because of different
metabolisms, it can be fatal for dogs and cats. A simple piece of
cupcake or cookie could kill an animal if the danger is unknown and not
addressed immediately.

Question: What are the signs my dog might have eaten xylitol?

Answer: Immediately after ingestion, vomiting may
occur. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) develops within 30 to 60 minutes,
resulting in lethargy and weakness. These signs may quickly develop into
ataxia (trouble walking), collapse, and seizures. Prolonged blood
clotting times as well as skin and intestinal hemorrhaging are clinical
signs that may develop within hours and warrant a very poor prognosis.

Question: What do I do if I think my dog has eaten xylitol? What is the treatment and prognosis?

Answer: If xylitol ingestion occurs, consult your
veterinarian immediately. Inducing vomiting to remove the xylitol is
imperative, but close monitoring of blood sugar levels and intravenous
infusions of glucose (sugar) may also be needed depending on the amount
ingested and how quickly the problem was recognized.
The prognosis for dogs with hypoglycemia is good with immediate and
proper treatment, while the prognosis for dogs that have developed liver
toxicity is poor. Large ingestions of xylitol (a relatively small
amount of the product) that are not caught immediately can result in
fulminant liver failure and death despite aggressive supportive care.
This can occur in less than 36 hours in dogs that are otherwise young
and healthy.

I remember when I was a kid (many moons ago) in the pet stores or the 5 & 10 stores (how's that for showing how much of an old fogey I am) they used to have the little red eared slider turtles in the plastic containers with some water, a ramp and the green plastic palm tree. It turned out that they were a source of Salmonella infections and where eventually banned. Well, history repeats itself once again.

From the AVMA Animal Health SmartBrief

Seven in NJ Sickened in Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Turtles

In New
Jersey, some of the cases have been linked to transient street vendors
selling small turtles in predominantly Spanish-speaking neighborhoods

Wednesday, Jul 11, 2012 | Updated 12:39 PM EDT

Philadelphia Health Dept.

Seven New Jersey residents have been sickened in an outbreak of Salmonella linked to small turtles, officials said Wednesday.

The Centers for Disease Control is
reporting six outbreaks of the infection, with 149 affected people in 28
states since August 2011, all linked to small turtles or the water they
live in. Seventy-two percent of those sickened said they had some
exposure to turtles.

In New Jersey, some of the cases have
been linked to transient street vendors selling small turtles in
predominantly Spanish-speaking neighborhoods.

Small turtles are a well-known source
of Salmonella infections, particularly among children. Sale and
distribution of these turtles as pets has been banned by the Food
and Drug Administration since 1975.

People are urged to wash hands after handling turtles and all reptiles and amphibians.

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Information from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) pertaining to risks you or your dogs face in dog parks or wherever there are concentrations of dogs.

Dogs’ Social Lives and Disease RisksWhether it’s the dog park, doggie day care, boarding, competitions or training classes, mingling dogs with varied or unknown health histories can present health problems for dogs as well as their owners. The very reason you take your dog to a dog gathering – social mixing with other dogs – is the same thing that can put them at risk. Diseases can be spread through direct contact between dogs, shared bowls and equipment, contaminated water, stool, insects and other methods. People who visit these areas and interact with the dogs may also become infected with zoonotic diseases, which are diseases that can be spread from animals to people. In addition, any gathering that puts people and dogs together introduces the risk of dog bites.As always, your veterinarian is your best source for animal health information. If your dog is showing signs of illness, consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment. If you feel you have been exposed or made ill by any of the conditions listed below, consult a physician.

This document isn’t intended to scare dog owners away from participating in and enjoying social events involving dogs; rather, it is intended to inform you of the risks and some common sense measures that can decrease the disease risks for you and your dog(s).

Common sense measures to protect your dogs, yourself and othersDisease Risks for DogsThe following is a list of the most common diseases to which your dog(s) may be exposed at a dog gathering. There may be specific risks in your area that are not listed. For more information about specific diseases in your area, consult your veterinarian.

People can also spread some diseases (such as mange, ringworm, kennel cough and canine influenza) from dog to dog through shared brushes, collars, bedding, etc. or by petting or handling an infected dog before petting or handling another dog.

Canine distemper Canine distemper is caused by a very contagious virus. Puppies and dogs usually become infected through virus particles in the air or in the respiratory secretions of infected dogs. Infected dogs typically develop runny eyes, fever, snotty nose, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and paralysis. It is often fatal.

Fortunately, there is an effective vaccine to protect your dog from this deadly disease. The canine distemper vaccine is considered a “core” vaccine and is recommended for every dog.

Canine influenza (“canine flu” or “dog flu”) Canine influenza is caused by the canine influenza virus. It is a relatively new disease in dogs. Because most dogs have not been exposed to the virus, their immune systems are not able to fully respond to the virus and many of them will become infected when they are exposed. Canine influenza is spread through respiratory secretions, contaminated objects (including surfaces, bowls, collars and leashes). The virus can survive for up to 48 hours on surfaces, up to 24 hours on clothing, and up to 12 hours on people’s hands.

Dogs can be shedding the virus before they even show signs of illness, which means an apparently healthy dog can still infect other dogs. Dogs with canine influenza develop coughing, a fever and a snotty nose, which are the same signs observed when a dog has kennel cough.

There is a vaccine for canine influenza, but at this time it is not recommended for every dog. Consult your veterinarian to determine if the canine influenza vaccine is recommended for your dog.

Canine parvovirus (“parvo”) Parvo is caused by the canine parvovirus type 2. The virus is very contagious and attacks the gastrointestinal system, causing fever, vomiting and severe, often bloody, diarrhea. It is spread by direct contact between dogs as well as by contaminated stool, surfaces, bowls, collars, leashes, equipment, and the hands and clothing of people. It can also survive in the soil for years, making the virus hard to kill. Treating parvo can be very expensive and many dogs die from parvo despite intensive treatment. Fortunately, there is a vaccine for parvo. It is considered a “core” vaccine and is recommended for every dog.

External parasites (ticks, fleas and mange) External parasites, such as ticks, fleas and mange, are fairly common dog problems. Ticks from the environment, fleas from other dogs and the environment, and mange from other dogs pose risks at dog gatherings. Ticks can transmit diseases (see tick-borne diseases below). Fleas can transmit some types of tapeworms as well as some diseases, and they may end up infesting your home and yard if they hitchhike home on your dog(s).

There are many approved products available to effectively prevent and treat external parasites on dogs. Consult your veterinarian about the best product for your dog. Cheyletiella mites cause “walking dandruff” on dogs (itching and flaky skin on the dog’s trunk). They are spread from dog to dog by direct contact, and may require more aggressive treatment than fleas.

Fertilizers and pesticides Some fertilizers and pesticides can be toxic to dogs. Avoid letting your pet walk, run, play or roam in areas that have recently been treated with fertilizers or pesticides.

Fungal infections (blastomycosis, histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, coccidioidomycosis, etc.)Fungal organisms in the soil can infect dogs when they eat or sniff contaminated soil. Dogs can also be infected through the skin, especially through a skin wound. The types of fungus seen vary throughout the U.S.: histoplasmosis is more common in the Eastern and Central U.S.; blastomycosis is more common in the Southeast, Southcentral and Midwest regions; cryptococcosis is more common in the Pacific Northwest region; and coccidioidomycosis is more common in the Southwest U.S. Histoplasmosis can be spread by bird or bat droppings.

In general, the fungus infects the body through the respiratory tract and causes fever, coughing, lethargy and flu-like or pneumonia-like signs. If eaten, digestive problems (e.g., pain, diarrhea) can occur.
Immunosuppressed dogs (dogs whose immune systems are weakened because of disease or certain medications) are much more likely to become infected with these fungi and develop disease.

Heartworms Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes and can cause coughing, lethargy, difficulty breathing, heart disease and death. Fortunately, there are many approved products to prevent heartworm infection. Consult your veterinarian about the best product for your dog.

Heatstroke Heatstroke is a big risk during warm and hot weather. Remember that your dog is always wearing a fur coat and they are usually warmer than you are. A temperature that seems only a little warm to a person can be too hot for a dog. Add to that the fact that dogs at dog gatherings are often active and playing, and the heat could become deadly for your dog. Never leave your pet in the car on warm days. Even a 70°F day can be too hot in a car. Short-nosed breeds, such as pugs, Boston Terriers, boxers, bulldogs, etc. are more prone to heatstroke and breathing problems because they don’t pant as effectively as breeds with normal-length noses.

Any dog showing signs of heatstroke should be immediately taken to a shaded area and cooled with cold, wet towels that are wrung out and rewetted every few minutes. Running cool water over the dog’s body and quickly wiping it away (so the water absorbs the skin’s heat and is immediately wiped away) can also help. Transport the dog to a veterinarian immediately, because heatstroke can rapidly become deadly.

Injuries Any time unfamiliar dogs and/or dogs with different temperaments are mixed, there is a risk of conflict and injury. Bite wounds should be immediately evaluated by a veterinarian and efforts should be made to determine the rabies vaccination status of the biting dog. Overweight dogs and dogs accustomed to more sedentary lifestyles should be encouraged to become more active, but excessive activity can put them at risk of injury to joints, bones or muscles. If your dog is overweight and/or you plan to increase its activity level, consult with your veterinarian about the best plan to get your dog active with the least risk of injury.

Intestinal parasites Intestinal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms lay eggs that are passed in the dog’s stool and infect other dogs when they eat contaminated soil, lick contaminated fur or paws, or drink water contaminated with the stool from infected dogs. Tapeworms are spread when dogs eat fleas, lice, or rodents infected with tapeworms.

These worms can cause malnutrition (because they steal nutrients as food is being digested) and diarrhea, and hookworms can cause blood loss. There are many products available to treat worms, and you should consult their veterinarian for the appropriate products for your pets.

Coccidia and Giardia are single-celled parasites that damage the lining of the intestine. Dogs can become infected with coccidia by eating infected soil or licking contaminated paws or fur. Puppies are at the highest risk of infection and illness.

Kennel cough Kennel cough can be caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria. It is very contagious and your dog can become infected if it comes into contact with an infected dog. Dogs with kennel cough may not seem ill in the early stages of the disease but they can still infect other dogs. Most commonly, dogs with kennel cough will have a snotty nose and a dry, hacking cough.

There are vaccines for kennel cough, but not all dogs need to receive the vaccine. Consult your veterinarian about whether or not the kennel cough (Bordetella) vaccine is right for your dog.

Leptospirosis Leptospirosis is caused by species of the Leptospira bacteria. The bacteria are shed in the urine of infected animals, and animals and people usually become infected by drinking contaminated water or coming into contact with contaminated soil or food. Dogs infected with Leptospira may develop fever, muscle weakness, vomiting, lethargy, abdominal pain, and kidney or liver failure. There is a vaccine for leptospirosis; consult your veterinarian about whether or not the vaccine is appropriate for your dog. Some canine distemper combination vaccines include a Leptospira vaccine.

Rabies Any mammal is capable of being infected with the virus that causes rabies. Most dog parks and organized dog gatherings require proof of rabies vaccination, but some do not. Rabies is caused by the rabies virus and is 100% fatal in animals once they start to show signs of disease. The virus is spread by saliva, either by a bite from an infected animal or by saliva contaminating a skin wound. In addition, any contact with wildlife (including bats) can introduce the risk of rabies infection. Raccoons, skunks and other wild animals can carry the rabies virus and may be present in areas where dogs gather.

Fortunately, rabies infection is preventable with vaccination. Many local and state governments require regular rabies vaccination for dogs.

Regional wildlife risks and feral animals Wildlife mixing with dogs can increase the risk of diseases, such as rabies and plague, as well as the risk of injury. In some areas of the U.S., prairie dogs often invade dog parks. Prairie dogs carry fleas that can carry the bacteria that causes plague. Skunks, raccoons, foxes, feral cats and pigs, and other wildlife can also carry rabies and other diseases that can infect dogs. Feral dogs present disease and injury risks.

Ringworm Although its name suggests it’s a worm, ringworm is actually due to fungal infection of the skin. It can be spread by contact with an infected dog, its bedding or something that has come in contact with the infected dog. The fungus can also survive in the soil. Ringworm gets its name because it often causes circular patches of hair loss. Some dogs will excessively scratch the areas, while others may not be itchy. Many dogs will recover without treatment, but they are often treated to prevent them from spreading the infection to other dogs or to people.

Tick-borne diseases (hemobartonellosis, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, rickettsial diseases such as Lyme disease, and others) There is a variety of diseases that can infect dogs and are spread by ticks. Some diseases are more common in specific areas of the U.S. These diseases can cause anemia (blood loss), lameness, weakness, lethargy, organ failure, and even death. The best way to prevent these diseases is to prevent tick bites. There are many products available that reduce tick bites and kill ticks on dogs; consult your veterinarian about the best product for your dog. Check your dog for ticks after any outside dog gatherings and remove the tick(s) as soon as possible.

Toxic plants Toxic plants can cause a variety of illnesses. Some ornamental plants can be very toxic to animals. Cocoa mulch is also toxic to dogs. For more information about toxic plants, visit the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center Web site.

Disease risks for peoplePeople attending dog social events can be at risk of zoonotic diseases, which are diseases that spread from animals to people. Some of these diseases can be spread directly from dogs to people, while other diseases may come from the environment where the dog social gathering is taking place.

Cryptosporidiosis Cryptosporidiosis is caused by a single-celled, microscopic parasite that lives in the intestines and can be present in high numbers in the stool of infected animals or people. It is generally spread by the fecal-oral route, meaning that a person or animal comes in contact with the stool (or a surface or soil contaminated by the stool) of an infected animal or person then touches their mouth or eats or drinks something; often, the person can’t see their hands are contaminated, and they accidentally eat the parasite and become infected. Infection can also come from swimming in or drinking contaminated water. People infected with Cryptosporidium may develop stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting and fever.

Dog bites Dog bites are always a risk when people and dogs come together. Most people are bitten by their own dog or a dog they know. At dog gatherings, people may be bitten when they try to break up a dog fight. Prevention is the best method for avoiding dog bites. Socialize your dog and train it to be obedient. Neutered and spayed dogs are less likely to bite. Be a responsible dog owner and be careful around unfamiliar dogs.

All dog bites should be immediately cleaned with soap and water and the rabies vaccination status of the biting dog should be determined. If bitten, consult your physician. Some states require animal bites to be reported to local health authorities, so be sure to notify them as well, if necessary.

Echinococcosis People can be infected by several species of tapeworms. Echinococcus multilocularis and Echinococcus granulosus can infect people who come into contact with the infected animal's stool (or anything, including the animal's fur, that is contaminated with stool). The symptoms of disease vary with the type of worm, but can include respiratory or digestive problems.

External parasites Just like their dogs, people can become the victims of fleas, ticks and Cheyletiella mites. Itching and bumps with dark/blackened centers may occur with Cheyletiella infestation. Flea bites cause itching and raised, reddened skin. In certain parts of the U.S., certain types of fleas can carry diseases such as plague. Ticks are capable of transmitting tick-borne diseases such as ehrlichiosis, babesiosis, Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and others.

People can also become infected with the mange mite that causes sarcoptic mange in dogs and develop itchy, reddened skin.

Hookworms and roundworms Human infections with hookworms and roundworms usually occur when a person accidentally eats the larvae (for example, the person may handle infected soil or an infected dog and then eat without washing their hands) or when the larvae burrow through the person’s skin.

Roundworm infection in people can cause serious, even life-threatening, illness when the parasites enter the organs. Lung, liver or brain damage can occur. If the parasites enter the eyes, permanent blindness can result.Hookworms can cause severe itching and tunnel-like, red areas as they move through the skin. If they are eaten, they can cause intestinal problems.Fungal infections Like their dogs, people can be exposed to the fungal organisms that cause histoplasmosis, blastomycosis, cryptococcosis and coccidioidomycosis. Inhalation of fungal spores is the most common route of infection in people. The symptoms may include flu-like or pneumonia-like symptoms, chest pain, fever, coughing, headache, skin rash or muscle aches. Immunosuppressed people are at the highest risk of infection and illness.

People can become infected with canine ringworm caused by the fungal organism Microsporum canis through contact with an infected dog. Symptoms include itching, scaly skin, hair loss and possibly “ring-like” skin rashes.

Mosquito-borne diseases Any outdoor activity that occurs during mosquito season puts people at risk of mosquito bites and mosquito-borne diseases such as West Nile Virus and the equine encephalitis viruses. Although these diseases aren’t spread from dogs to people, people are at risk of being infected with these diseases any time they are outside during periods of mosquito activity. The symptoms caused by these diseases can vary in severity, but include fever, headache, neckache, flu-like symptoms, abnormal behavior, seizures, coma and death.

Tick-borne diseases Ticks are capable of transmitting tick-borne diseases such as ehrlichiosis, babesiosis, Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and others. The symptoms caused by these diseases vary, but may include pinpoint (or larger) blood spots on the skin and rashes, joint pain, muscle ache, fatigue and headache.

Water-borne diseases People who swim in water frequented by any animals (or people, for that matter) can be exposed to water-borne diseases such as Cryptosporidium (covered separately above because it is also spread by contact with the stool of infected animals), Giardia, Shigella and E.coli. The symptoms can vary based on the infection, but can include diarrhea, vomiting and stomach cramps.

People can also develop leptospirosis from exposure to water contaminated with Leptospira-contaminated urine. Symptoms can include fever, headache, muscle aches, diarrhea and vomiting,

Although the possible disease issues to be transmitted from dogs to humans may seem overwhelming, veterinarians are experts on zoonotic diseases and animal-related health hazards. Please consult with your veterinarian if you have questions or need more information about any of the diseases described here. Your veterinarian may also wish to consult with your physician regarding any health issues to ensure that both you and your dog remain as healthy as possible.

Common sense measures to protect your dogs, yourself and others• Consult your veterinarian about the best preventive program for your dog(s), including vaccinations, heartworm prevention and parasite prevention (deworming and regular stool checks).• Do not let your puppy come into contact with other dogs’ stool.• Make sure you keep your dog’s vaccinations up to date so it is fully protected from disease. Consult your veterinarian about the best vaccination schedule for your dog.• If your dog has a disease or it is receiving steroids or other medications that suppress its immune system and decrease its resistance to infection, you should not take it to dog gatherings without first consulting your veterinarian.• If your dog is ill, do not take it to a dog gathering.
• Do not pet or handle a dog that appears unhealthy. If contact with an ill dog cannot be avoided, wash your hands thoroughly and change clothes (or cover your clothes) before handling your own dog or another apparently healthy dog.• Clean up after you own dog(s) and place stool in appropriate containers.• Follow the rules and guidelines associated with the event or area.• Teach your dog good leash manners and obedience. If your dog does not behave well around other dogs or people, you should not take it to dog gatherings.• Remain in sight of your dog and be aware of its behavior while at a dog gathering. Remember, your dog and its behavior are your responsibility in these situations. If your dog shows signs of aggression, fear or illness, remove your dog from the situation and consider leaving the site altogether.• Avoid contact with dogs that appear aggressive and report their presence and behavior to the proper authorities.• Before your children accompany you and your pet(s) to a dog gathering, make sure they are aware of safety around dogs. While present at the dog gathering, monitor your children closely to make sure they are safe and protected from harm (e.g., injury, bites, etc.).• Do not allow your dog to have contact with any wildlife. This includes rabbits, squirrels and other wildlife that may be present in areas frequented by dogs.• If you observe wildlife or other animals acting in an abnormal way, do not approach the animal, do not allow your dog to come in contact with the animal, and call the appropriate authorities.• Do not swim in water frequented by dogs (e.g., in dog parks, etc.)• Avoid letting dogs drink standing water or water that is obviously not fresh. If possible, bring water for yourself and your dog to the dog gathering.• Take appropriate measures to reduce your risk of tick and mosquito bites, including the following:o Wear light-colored clothing.o Wear long sleeves and pants (where practical) and tuck the pant leg hems into socks to prevent ticks from crawling up your legs from the ground.o Use insect repellant.o When practical, avoid being outside during times of high insect activity.• Check your dog for ticks after any outside dog gatherings and remove the tick(s) as soon as possible. Prompt removal of ticks is very important because it lessens the chance of disease transmission from the tick to your pet.o Remove ticks by carefully using tweezers to firmly grip the tick as close to the pet's skin as possible and gently and steadily pulling the tick free without twisting it or crushing the tick during removal.o Do not attempt to smother the tick with alcohol or petroleum jelly, or apply a hot match to it, as this may cause the tick to regurgitate saliva into the wound and increase the risk of disease if the tick is infected.o Crushing, twisting or jerking the tick out of the skin while its head is still buried could result in leaving the tick's mouth parts in your pet's skin; this can cause a reaction and may become infected.o After removing the tick, crush it in a napkin or tissue to avoid contact with tick fluids that can carry disease.

Allowing your dog to interact with other dogs can provide good opportunities for exercise and socialization that can help your dog’s mental and physical well-being. However, these situations are also associated with some risk to dogs and their owners. By using good common sense, you can minimize the risks while still providing for your dog’s well-being.

The AVMA would like to thank the Council on Public Health and Regulatory Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Robert Belden, Dr. Ron Schultz, the American College of Veterinary Behavior, and the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior for their roles in developing this document.

A note about puppy socialization and the risk of disease:The socialization period for puppies, which takes place from 6-14 weeks of age, is critical for a dog’s behavioral development. During this time positive experiences with other dogs, people, noises and activities can reduce the likelihood of fearful behaviors, such as aggression and phobias, later in the dog’s life. Puppies that are not properly socialized are more likely to develop behavioral problems that can make them unsuitable pets and increase the chances their owners will relinquish them to shelters.

This socialization period overlaps a period of vulnerability to disease, including canine parvovirus and canine distemper virus infection. Puppies need socialization with other dogs, but those dogs must be well vaccinated and healthy.

To fully protect your puppy from canine parvovirus, the last dose of the parvovirus vaccine must be at 14-16 weeks of age, regardless of the number of doses given at an earlier age. Until your puppy is fully protected, avoid taking it to dog parks or other areas where it has uncontrolled exposure to dogs with questionable or unknown vaccination histories.

Having a puppy 6-14 weeks of age in socialization classes can offer excellent opportunities to properly socialize puppies but there is a disease risk. To reduce the risk, puppies in the classes should be of similar age and vaccination history and should be examined and found to be healthy by a veterinarian prior to starting classes. Proper sanitation (including immediate cleanup of ‘accidents’) during the classes helps provide additional protection from infection. The puppies’ first vaccine should be administered at least 7 days prior to the first class. Puppies with signs of illness (diarrhea, coughing, fever, etc.) should not attend puppy socialization classes until they have recovered from their illness.

If you allow your puppy to interact with dogs belonging to family or friends, make sure the dogs have been appropriately vaccinated and are adequately socialized to avoid bad experiences that could have negative long-term consequences to your puppy’s behavior. Similarly, if you own an older dog and plan to introduce a puppy into your house, make sure the older dog is adequately vaccinated.

It is important to understand that it is not until 7-10 days after the last vaccination at 14-16 weeks of age that the risk of infection is very low and you can increase the puppy's introduction and socialization with all dogs.

This information has been prepared as a service by the American Veterinary Medical Association.